If you have heard a lot about blockchain but don't really know what it is, you're not alone. The success of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies has given blockchain a major leap forward. But cryptocurrencies aren't the only place where blockchain technology makes itself useful. It can completely disrupt procurement and supply chain operations. First, however, it's important to have a bird's eye view of blockchain.

Struggling with a case of the winter doldrums? This week my webinar recommendations each bring something a little new for procurement to think about. Give yourself an opportunity for inspiration by registering for one of these three events. Click on the title of each webinar below to view the full description and register.

Below are my recommendations for this week’s best webinars. Just a reminder that September 26th is the start of The Procurement Revolution: a 100% free, online, global, interactive event designed to get the procurement community to Stand Up, Speak Out, and Drive Change. Click on the title of each event below to view the full description and register or visit the BMP events calendar to see what’s on tap for the rest of the month.

If you’re not familiar with Blockchain, it is the underlying technology behind digital currency - like Bitcoin. Wait! Don’t dismiss this event just because you don’t envision supporting Bitcoin as an accepted currency in your next RFP. There is a whole world of fintech (or financial technology) innovation taking place, and it will affect your business more – and sooner – than you might think.

Most of us use the Pareto Principle, more commonly known as the 80/20 rule, on a regular basis. And while it rarely goes beyond a rough rule of thumb, is has so much more potential. For instance, as Supply Chain Brain will discuss in this webinar, it can be combined with ABC analysis to improve inventory management.

With contingent workforce, managed services, and hybrid staffing models growing in popularity, it can be hard to tell where HR ends and procurement begins. If that is going to be the case, deciding which model is best for each skill, headcount, or talent need is a perfect application for the analytics technology and expertise procurement has built up over time.